Best Of Health

BEST OF HEALTH Talking Skin with Dr Neil Fernandes and Beth Lopez of Skin and Cancer Center of Arizona

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BEST OF HEALTH Talking Skin with Dr Neil Fernandes and Beth Lopez of Skin and Cancer Center of Arizona

The importance of skin evals, sunscreens and there’s so much more hope for those diagnoses with melanoma. Skin Cancer is about sun and UV exposure but you can get it anywhere so genetics is another huge variable with who gets it and who does not.

We hear from 2 amazing providers. Their combined knowledge concerning skin disorders and cancers as well as truly understanding the ins and outs of pathology prognosis and treatment options will help the listener whether a skin cancer patient or not be able to understand path reports, importance of genetic
testing and the amazing treatments available that are setting the stage for much longer lives and hope especially with those of us fighting Melanoma.

Skin and Cancer Center of Arizona (SCC of AZ) was established by Dr. Burrell H. Wolk, M.D. in October 1987. As the premier dermatology center in Chandler, Arizona, SCC of AZ has the cutting edge technology and the expert medical staff to meet patients’ medical and surgical skin care needs. The practice offers treatments for common skin conditions such as skin cancer, acne, actinic keratosis, eczema, psoriasis, moles, alopecia, female hair loss, nail disorders, skin rashes, skin discoloration and much more. SCC of AZ also provides skin cancer screening and performs a variety of dermatologic treatments and procedures including Mohs micrographic surgery, curettage-electrodessication and laser skin resurfacing. In addition, the office provides the latest advances to achieve the best cosmetic results.

The staff of medical providers have advanced training and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer as well as all other skin conditions. SCC of AZ also offers a variety of aesthetic and cosmetic treatments designed to make you look and feel your very best. These treatments are effective and offer dramatic results when used in conjunction with the medical treatment of many skin conditions.

Neil Fernandes, M.D. is board-certified in both dermatology and dermatopathology and is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix. He graduated cum laude from Columbia University with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and concentration in Biology. Dr. Fernandes received a full scholarship to New Jersey Medical School as a Humanism Scholar, where he was also elected into the Alpha Omega Alpha and Gold Humanism honor societies.

Dr. Fernandes completed his medical internship at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and dermatology residency at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, serving as chief resident during his final year of dermatology training. He subsequently completed his fellowship in dermatopathology at the University of Cincinnati.

Dr. Fernandes is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and American Society of Dermatopathology. He has published numerous journal articles within various areas of both dermatology and dermatopathology, and he has given presentations at several national and international conferences. He also enjoys community service (he is an avid volunteer at Junior Achievement of Arizona) and has participated in activities such as Free the Children, a medical mission trip to Kenya.

Beth Lopez PA-C began her healthcare career as a candy striper, then a nurse’s aide, a registered nurse and finally a physician assistant. She has currently been practicing dermatology at the Skin and Cancer Center of Arizona for 17 years, and has been adjunct faculty with three universities.

Follow Skin and Cancer Center of Arizona on Twitter and Facebook.

WHY BEST OF HEALTH?

I am a Physician Assistant who has been caring for patients for over 20 years and Family Practice (cradle to grave) is my specialty.

Following the footsteps of three generations of family practice physicians (my father, grandfather and great grandfather) this was a natural and genetic calling that I do not regret.

Given this, I have a unique perspective and it’s time to share that perspective through Ask the PA. As a health care provider, teacher, business owner, patient, and advocate for my family and friends throughout the years, it has been painfully apparent there are disconnects within the current state of health care in the US and throughout the world. It can be confusing and frankly very scary.

It is my goal though this series, Best of Health, to bring people together that are passionate about their roles in the business of health care… and yes, whether or not you want to hear that it’s a business, it is — and that’s the fact. I will introduce to you great, dedicated practitioners and people with a passion for getting the word out about their personal journeys and causes. I will provide information about navigating through a confusing system, asking the right questions and share ways for saving money and time along the way.

It’s time to create change by partnering, empowering, and focusing on the patient, their families and their providers of care. It’s time for you to take the driver’s seat rather than leave your health care solely in the hands of entities such as insurance companies and the pharmaceutical industry.

Stay tuned. Here’s to your Best of Health.

~ Barb 

ABOUT BARB

Barb is a Physician Assistant (PA) and a primary care provider with a passion for education and advocacy. Prior to becoming a Physician Assistant (PA), Barb was an accomplished musician and teacher.  In 1992, Barb made the conscious decision to leave teaching and her musical career in pursuit of a career in medicine. She graduated from AT Still University’s first PA class in 1997 with a Masters of Science in Physician Assistant Studies.

Barb has spent several years working in clinics and family practices. Currently, Barb works for Premise Health at Insight Enterprises in Tempe, AZ as a solo practitioner providing primary care to employees and families on campus. She was also a partner in Renaissance Medical Group and Renaissance Medical Properties in Chandler and Maricopa, AZ and had a dual role of Chief Operations Officer and practicing PA for 14 years.

Along with being a PA, Barb is the author of the book Surviving the “Business” of Healthcare, Knowledge is Power! She is a certified Medical Professional Legal Consultant and Patient Advocate, speaker and influencer for change in healthcare for the patient, provider and family members. Barb is also certified by the National Commission of Certification of Physician Assistants and is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants.

In her spare time, she loves to travel, maintaining an active lifestyle that includes running, biking, swimming. She loves to spend time outdoors with her family and friends, whether it’s walking on the beach or hiking in the desert.

For more information about Ask the PA and to connect with Barb: